UK retail sales rise 0.5% in August as online share climbs to 28.8%
UK retail sales volumes increased 0.5% in August 2026, according to the Office for National Statistics. Online’s share of retail rose to 28.8% in August, up from 28.4% in July.
Over the three months to August, retail sales volumes were up 0.9% compared with the prior three months, driven by strong June performance in non‑store sectors such as fans and air‑conditioning units. Total sales volumes, which include automotive fuel, also rose 0.5% in the month and reached their second highest level since April 2022. Consumer price inflation stood at 3.1% in August, up from 2.9% in July, indicating that shoppers remain cautious despite the uptick in spending.
“With the start of the Golden Quarter approaching, retailers will be looking for a Budget that gives consumers the confidence to keep spending without adding further pressure to already stretched operating costs,” Erin Brookes, European retail and consumer lead at Alvarez & Marsal said.
“We’re already seeing early signs of shoppers returning to discretionary spending on gifts, hospitality, and many other industries across our merchant base, which is great to see after a stop-start summer on the high street,” Jacyn Heavens, CEO of Epos Now said.
In July, retail sales volumes fell after a strong June boosted by fans and air‑conditioning purchases during early summer heatwaves. Supermarkets and alcohol retailers performed well in July and August, while clothing sales rose in June. The ONS noted that total sales volumes were at their second highest level since April 2022.
What we know
Retail sales volumes increased 0.5% in August 2026.
Over the three months leading up to August 2026, retail sales volumes rose 0.9% compared to the previous three months.
Online’s share of retail rose to 28.8% in August 2026, up from 28.4% in July.
Consumer price inflation (CPI) was 3.1% in August 2026, up from 2.9% in July.
Total sales volumes (including automotive fuel) were at their second highest level since April 2022 in August 2026.